Trying To Make It To State

Friday and Saturday are two of the biggest days in the high school track and field season, as student-athletes try to qualify for the state championships.

Laramie High School is one of six teams taking part in the 4A East Regional Track and Field Meet at Okie Blanchard Stadium in Cheyenne.

LHS head coach Gil Bradfield says they’ll get tested with great competition this weekend.

“On the boy’s side, there’s lots and lots of good kids, including some on Laramie’s team. Even on the girl’s side, in some events, they’re way up there (in terms of ranking with times and marks), and it’s really tough. It’s going to be a dogfight to get into state.”

The Plainsmen and Lady Plainsmen will have 50 student-athletes in action against those from Cheyenne Central, Cheyenne South, Gillette, Sheridan and the host school, Cheyenne East.

Bradfield stated the Laramie boys have a good chance at the title, while it’ll be tougher for Laramie girls. He looks at Gillette and East as favorites in the girl’s team race.

Bradfield said everybody has a chance.

“There’s always times where there might be a false start or there might be a pass through or somebody’s injured. The difference between just being competitive and trying for that last spot is what’s going to make the difference.”

Only the top eight in individual events and the top four relays will qualify for the Wyoming State Track and Field Championships May 19-21 in Casper.

Both field and running events begin at 9 a.m. both Friday and Saturday.